SAWS warns voters to prepare for heat and storms
From scorching temperatures to afternoon thunderstorms, voters may need more than their ID documents when heading to the polls.
As South Africans prepare to head to the polls for the special voting days on November 2 and 3 and the official local government election on Wednesday, November 4, the South African Weather Service (SAWS) has urged voters to take note of the expected weather conditions when planning their activities.
According to senior forecaster Tokelo Chiloane, spring weather can change day to day, with hot temperatures, showers and thundershowers expected in various parts of the country during the voting period.
Chiloane explained that the seasonal forecast, influenced by the developing El Niño weather pattern, indicates that parts of South Africa are likely to experience below-normal rainfall and above-normal temperatures.
However, showers and thundershowers remain possible in some areas.
“Similar weather conditions are expected to persist on Monday and Tuesday, [November 2 and 3], with isolated to scattered showers and thundershowers possible over several parts of the country,” Chiloane said.
She encouraged voters to plan their journeys accordingly, particularly in areas where afternoon thunderstorms are expected.
On Election Day, fine and warm to very hot conditions are expected over the central and western parts of the country.
In contrast, partly cloudy and cool conditions are expected in places over the eastern parts, with morning drizzle possible along the eastern Drakensberg. Isolated afternoon showers and thundershowers are also expected over the eastern parts of the country.
Chiloane advised voters, election officials and members of the public to consider the expected weather conditions when making their plans.
“Stay hydrated and take precautions against heat exposure, particularly in areas expecting very hot conditions,” she advised.
Members of the public are also encouraged to carry umbrellas or raincoats where showers and thundershowers are expected, allow sufficient travel time and exercise caution on wet roads, especially when visibility is reduced.
Chiloane further urged the public to monitor official SAWS weather forecasts, warnings and advisories for updates.
SAWS will continue monitoring weather developments throughout the voting period and issue severe weather warnings and advisories when necessary.
Voters are encouraged to follow SAWS through its official communication platforms for the latest weather information.
